The bill seeks to enhance the WACares program by incorporating recommendations from the long-term services and supports trust commission. Key provisions include allowing employees or self-employed individuals who move out of Washington to maintain their participation in the program if they have paid premiums for at least three years and notify the employment security department within one year of their relocation. Out-of-state participants are required to report their earnings and maintain documentation, with exceptions after reaching age 67. The bill also emphasizes that out-of-state participants cannot withdraw from coverage, and the employment security department must cancel coverage if required payments or reports are not submitted. Additionally, the bill clarifies definitions related to the program, adjusts benefit units for inflation, and establishes the long-term services and supports trust commission to oversee the program's operations.

Further amendments focus on eligibility criteria and payment processes for beneficiaries, including provisions for individuals residing outside Washington to apply for benefits starting July 1, 2030. The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) is tasked with ensuring sufficient capacity for eligibility determinations and establishing payment procedures for long-term services providers. The bill also introduces new responsibilities for employers regarding premium assessments and allows employees with pre-existing long-term care insurance to apply for exemptions under specific conditions. Moreover, it outlines consumer protection measures for supplemental long-term care insurance, including requirements for policy approval, definitions of preexisting conditions, and provisions for policyholder rights. Overall, the bill aims to improve the accessibility, efficiency, and fairness of long-term care services and insurance in Washington state.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 50B.04.180, 50B.04.010, 50B.04.020, 74.04.025, 50B.04.050, 50B.04.055, 50B.04.060, 50B.04.070, 50B.04.085, 50B.04.100, 50B.04.040, 50B.04.140, 70.127.040